7 axis CNC machines and even 9 axis machines are becoming more and more common within the world of precision engineering. So, the question arises whether more axes are actually better, and if you need to update your machinery. The answer to this question depends on many things. Below is a look at some of them and if you should start panicking because your workshop doesn’t own any 7 axis CNC machines.
7 Axis CNC Machines : Different Applications
The question of whether more axes are indeed better depends a lot on the application for which the CNC machine is being used. The number of axes your machine has will dictate the movement paths of your machine. If you have a simplistic 2 axis machine then it will only be able to move in 2 directions, these being horizontally and vertically. The more axes, the more movement, and the more complex the configuration and the paths the machine can follow.
The determination of how many axes you need for your machine comes from the component you hope to produce. If you wish to simply carve or etch on a metal plate, then you will only need 2 axes. If you hope to produce 3-dimensional items such as car parts etc, then you will need a machine that can move and cut on at least 3 axes. This will allow all sides of the object to be cut.
Between a 3 axis machine and 7 axis CNC machines you will find a 5-axis machine. Such a machine can cut a 3D object but will also benefit from rotary axis movements. These additional rotary axes can perform additional cuts to the piece in question. Asides 7 axis machines that are now becoming increasingly common, you will also find 9 axis machines. These are costly and only used for very specialized applications. Your small workshop certainly does not need to invest in a 9 axis machine.
7 Axis CNC Machines : Summary
CNC machines are the perfect way to create a vast array of components. Used in numerous industries, some requiring more precision than other, 7 axis CNC machines are common where higher levels of precision are necessary. The number of axes that a particular machine has will determine how useful it is and its overall capabilities. A 2 axis machine is not really useful for anything other than for a hobby machine that requires cutting in only 2 directions.
Any 3D projects will require at least 3 axes, 5 axes being more common and offering rotary cutting as well as cutting along the X, Y, and Z axes. The most widely used CNC machines have between 3 and 5 axes. With 5 axes, the creation of nearly any conceivable component is imaginable. CNC machines continue to improve as demand increases, but 7 or 9 axes is definitely the most required in today’s industries. The future of CNC is constantly involving however, and in the future it is extremely possible that machines with more than 9 axes will be created.
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